Of Friends And Acquaintances

A week ago, I met up with my old college friends whom I haven’t seen for quite some time. Our meeting place was at Gella’s in Las Piñas sometime around 5:30 p.m.

*Sigh*

I missed the place! I’ve been to Gella’s countless times before on given occasions – birthdays, drama practices, get-togethers – plus her mom’s the kindest hostess there ever was. (And did I mention she cooks one helluva killer menudo? Yummy!) Just like the good old times, I was the early bird as usual, while the rest of the crew arrived sometime past six in the evening. So good to see all of them again – Gella, Rhyzza, Marvin, Jhey, and Yayans.

Getting together with my college friends, I can’t help but compare how friendship was like back in college and now. Back then, we were a solid crew consisting of three guys and gals. Sure, we’re diverse and conflicts once in a while are inevitable. But at the end of the day the bond still stands. Some would reason that the four years we spent together within the walls of the university has got to be the big factor for the strong bond, but I say it’s more than that. It’s been more than four years after we graduated, and still it’s as if nothing’s changed. Though, I must admit, changes are apparent in terms of topics for discussion – from love life and notorious professors to career and a bit of national issues. In other words, we’ve matured in more ways than one BUT the friendship stays as if it was only yesterday when we were those unruly and pasaway BCS 41 in green and white uniform.

The bestest college barkada (L to R: Tantan, Jhey, Geh, Rhyzza, Marvin, Gella, Yayans, Issy, Wino)

*Sigh*

I wish I’d feel the same way about the people I am with right now. But truth be told, it’s hard to find true friends nowadays in a pool of acquaintances, especially at the workplace. If there’s one thing I’ve learned recently, no matter how much I’m willing to accept people for what they are – strengths, weaknesses, and all – they may not be willing to see past my outer demeanor and try to know the real me. It’s sad, but it’s one of the realities I must live by as an adult. Still, I’d like to believe that I’ve made true friends along the way, and that somehow the bond is for keeps. That is, setting aside my being a self-confessed bratinella with a frank attitude and a sharp tongue that could easily break a spirit if I choose to. This is me, after all; I’m not going to change who I am but I am trying to be better.

So what are we?

Are we friends or merely acquaintances?

Cheers! ^_^